Naperville Criminal Defense Attorney

Affordable Law Clinic for Criminal Misdemeanor Defense in DuPage, Kane, and Kendall County

Though a criminal misdemeanor is not as serious as a felony, you still may face significant consequences if you are convicted, including fines, jail time, and a permanent mark on your criminal record that can appear in a background check. If you have been charged with a misdemeanor offense, hiring an attorney often gives you the best chance of avoiding conviction or reducing your sentence.

Unfortunately, many Illinois residents facing misdemeanor charges are unable to afford an expensive attorney and may feel that their only option is to represent themselves. At the Legal-Ease Law Clinic, we strive to give you another option by offering quality defense representation with fees determined based on your income level and ability to pay. Our supervising attorney, Reese Krajniak, has 10 years of legal experience and will work to ensure your fair treatment under Illinois law.

What Are the Penalties for a Misdemeanor in Illinois?

In Illinois, there are three different classifications of misdemeanors based on the severity of the offense, each with its own maximum penalties as follows:

• Class A misdemeanors are the most serious misdemeanor offenses in Illinois, carrying penalties of up to one year in jail and up to $2,500 in fines.
• Class B misdemeanors are less severe and carry penalties of up to 180 days in jail and up to $1,500 in fines.
• Class C misdemeanors are the lowest level of criminal offense in Illinois, with penalties including up to 30 days in jail and up to $1,500 in fines.

Some types of misdemeanor convictions may include additional penalties, such as the suspension or revocation of a driver's license or the seizure of unlawful property. Convictions for any class of misdemeanor are also likely to remain on your criminal record indefinitely.

Common Illinois Criminal Misdemeanors

A wide variety of crimes fall under one of Illinois' three misdemeanor classes. Some of the most common criminal misdemeanors include:

• Drug-related offenses: The unlawful possession, manufacturing, and growing of relatively small amounts of cannabis are all considered misdemeanor offenses, as is the possession of drug paraphernalia and hypodermic needles and syringes.
• Alcohol-related offenses: The first conviction for driving under the influence (DUI) is a Class A misdemeanor. Other alcohol-related misdemeanors include selling alcohol to a minor, possession of alcohol by a minor, and purchasing alcohol with a fake ID.
• Driving-related offenses: In addition to DUI, reckless driving and aggravated speeding are misdemeanor offenses, as is driving without a license or with a revoked or suspended license, and leaving the scene of an accident resulting in property damage.
• Weapons-related offenses: The unlawful possession, storage, and use of firearms and other weapons may be considered misdemeanor offenses in the absence of aggravating factors like prior convictions or harm to another person.
• Property crimes: Destruction of property, trespassing on another person's property or vehicle, theft, and possession of stolen property all may be misdemeanor offenses in Illinois.
• Crimes involving law enforcement: You may face misdemeanor charges for resisting arrest, obstructing a law enforcement officer, or fleeing from law enforcement.
• Other criminal behavior: Additional Illinois misdemeanor offenses include reckless and disorderly conduct, public indecency, harassment, and assault and battery.

Help From a DuPage County Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you have been arrested or charged with any misdemeanor offense, you have the right to remain silent, the right to an attorney, and the right to a trial by jury. Before speaking with any law enforcement officials, you should contact our clinic to arrange for affordable representation so we can advise you and be present for any questioning.

As your trial approaches, we will thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding your arrest to gather evidence that can contribute to your defense. If it is apparent that you are innocent of the charges you are facing, we will fight to have them dismissed so you can avoid conviction and the accompanying penalties. If you are guilty, we can work to reduce your charges or sentencing through a plea deal, in many cases arranging for court supervision, probation, community service, or the completion of an education program in lieu of more severe punishments.

Contact a Kane County Criminal Misdemeanor Attorney

Do not let your fear of high legal fees prevent you from getting the defense representation you need. Contact us at 630-447-5733 to request a free consultation, and we will work with you to determine a rate you can afford. We serve clients in Naperville, Sugar Grove, Yorkville, and throughout DuPage County, Kane County, Kendall County, and the surrounding areas.